TMJ Therapy in Falls Church, VA

Get Effective Relief for TMJ Syndrome

It’s estimated that ten million Americans suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome, a common condition affecting the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. TMJ typically causes pain in the jaw, face, and neck area that may radiate down into the shoulder. If you have experienced this type of pain, or suspect that you may have TMJ syndrome, your Herrmann & Desio Family Dentistry professionals will work with you to develop an effective treatment plan.

What is temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome?

Temporomandibular joint syndrome, more commonly referred to as TMJ, involves the area of your mouth where the lower jaw connects with the skull via the temporal bone. Sometimes this joint doesn’t function the way it should due to overstretching. The condition typically begins between the ages of 20 to 40, and may last for many years.

Typical causes of TMJ syndrome.

It can be difficult to pinpoint the source of TMJ syndrome, since it can be linked to a number of different causes. TMJ typically results from an overstretched jaw muscle brought about by one of the following:

Teeth grinding due to stress

Incorrect alignment of the bite (occlusion)

Osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis

Injury of the jaw, neck, or head

How does TMJ affect the joints of the jaw?

The temporomandibular joint is one of the most frequently used in the body–involved in chewing, speaking, and yawning. When TMJ syndrome is present, it affects both the muscles and joints of the jaw.

TMJ symptoms may include:

Jaw, neck, and face pain

Pain that radiates into the head and shoulders

A clicking or popping noise with jaw movement

Locking of the jaw joint

Facial swelling and sensitivity

Difficulty chewing or fully opening the mouth

The diagnosis of TMJ syndrome.

If your Herrmann & Desio Family Dentistry dentist suspects you may suffer from TMJ syndrome, he or she will give you a thorough examination. Your dentist will likely evaluate the movement of your jaw, bite, and facial muscles. She or he may also request X-rays, an MRI, or a CAT scan to rule out other possible causes.

Treating TMJ syndrome.

Treatment for TMJ syndrome depends on the cause and the severity of the problem. In most cases, a night guard or splint–mouthpieces that fit over the teeth–will prevent the grinding that causes TMJ. These mouthpieces can also help correct an improper bite. In extreme cases, you may require surgery or orthodontic treatment to restore your muscles, teeth, and jaw joint to their proper functioning.

Medications for TMJ syndrome.

Your Herrmann & Desio Family Dentistry dentist may suggest over the counter pain relievers such as NSAIDs, or a muscle relaxant to prevent further clenching and grinding of the teeth. Other remedies include anti-anxiety medications to eliminate the stress that may contribute to TMJ.

How to cope with TMJ syndrome.

If you suspect your symptoms may stem from TMJ syndrome, ask your Herrmann & Desio Family Dentistry dentist for an appropriate assessment. Our professional staff will evaluate you to determine if TMJ is, in fact, the cause. If so, we offer extensive experience in this particular type of problem involving the teeth and jaws. Your treatment plan may combine multiple areas of dentistry, such as oral surgery, orthodontics, and the use of an oral sleep appliance to help alleviate symptoms. Let our experts help you get the effective relief you seek for TMJ syndrome.

Read What Our Patients Say

Patient Reviews

I highly recommend Herrmann & Desio Family Dentistry. Nicole has been my hygienist for several years, and she is fantastic! She’s very thorough, careful, and most of all friendly and so easy […]

Matthew S.

I’ve been a patient of Dr. Desio and his associates for the past ten years. They offer great customer service, dental care and the most up to date technology and procedures. I’ve just had my […]

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I have been coming to this office for years and love it! Everyone in the office is friendly and professional – would recommend this office to anyone!

Lauren B.

Friendly, welcoming staff puts you at ease

Laura C.

Nikki, the hygienist, was great and accommodating. Pleasure to see Dr. Hermann again. I wish him a happy retirement. I’ve been seeing him since I was 7. I’m 31 now. Fantastic office and staff.

John A.

Always professional and a pleasant experience.

Robert S.

The cleaning was efficient. The recommendation to switch to Sonicare was appreciated.

Alvin P.

My wife and I have been coming to Dr. Herrmann since we moved to the area four years ago. We always have a great experience and have never have to sit in the waiting room. Nicole is wonderful […]

Jacob P.

Dr. Herrmann is the best. He’s the only dentist I will go to and Linda and the whole staff are wonderful.

Lorraine B.

To go to the dentist here is easy and frankly, fun! I am so relaxed in the care of Donna Maffeo and Dr. Herrmann that I typically take a nap while I’m being worked on. These folks are THAT good and […]

Anonymous

Very professional treatment done with care . The technician was informative at each step, and answered several of my questions concerning gumbo irritation.

James S.

My hygienist was very friendly and professional.

Jose C.

Most would agree that going to the dentist is the worst but at Dr. Herrmann & Desio it was a pleasure. From the friendly front desk staff to the excellent hygienist Niki, who left my teeth super […]

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After 25 years, still very satisfied. My hygenist, Donna, is efficient and thorough and an overall pleasant and professional person.

Patricia S.

I was a little early and the tech was able to take me early. I always try to be on time or early and appreciate it when I can be taken early. She was very efficient and knowledgeable. I was in and […]

Anonymous

As always, a good experience. I was taken in on time, everyone greeted me by name, explained what was going to happen and asked before doing anything that would cost extra (x-rays).

Caroline S.

My hygienist did an excellent job cleaning and polishing my teeth. Everything went smoothly and punctually.

Anonymous

i had a great dental experience with Dr. Desio and all the staff. They were very patient supportive.

Loretta H.

My wife and I have been coming to Dr. Herrmann since we moved to the area four years ago. We always have a great experience and have never have to sit in the waiting room. Nicole is wonderful […]

Jacob P.

I’ve been coming to see Drs. Hermann and Desio for over 20 years. I continue to make the trip from out of town twice each year, because I know a good thing, when I’ve found it! The entire staff […]

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